Define "contracting out" in the context of Civil Engineering.

In the context of Civil Engineering, "contracting out" refers specifically to the practice of engaging private contractors to perform tasks or services that are traditionally handled by government employees. This is a common approach used by government entities to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and leverage specialized skills that may not be available within the government workforce. By utilizing private contractors, organizations can tap into innovative techniques, modern equipment, and expertise that lead to improved project outcomes.

While financing projects with public-private partnerships and negotiating contracts for government-funded construction can also involve private entities, they are not instances of "contracting out" in the strict sense, which focuses on outsourcing work rather than the financial aspects or collaborative arrangements. Creating joint ventures with other government agencies involves a different dynamic that generally does not fall under the umbrella of contracting out, as it pertains to collaboration within the public sector rather than outsourcing to the private sector.